Vegas Strip Covered in Snow
Posted by Liz at 05:21 AM
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Click below to watch- it's hysterical!
You know by now I'm not big on Facebook and myspace is OK. I'm really a Twitter devotee. Check out this link Twitter has where people can list, in the spirit of that ole geezer Grandpa McSame what they feel they need to suspend. Great stuff. BTW- join Twitter and give it a chance. You will be hooked.
Don't forget to check out my Twitter page and join if you haven't already. The secret to Twitter is having friends with interesting/frequent updates. Because it changes all the time, it's highly addictive. I actually have a lot of personal stuff on Twitter. You might have to read between the lines but if you know me in real life you know exactly what I'm referring too so please twitter me!
I am unable to post on you or contact you. If you happen to see this post please let me know how to do either of these things. Thank you! Liz
When I opened my email this morning I never in a million years expected to find a message from Jayel Aheram requesting that I contribute something to his blog. Jayel is a marine currently serving his country although I confess I think of him as an artist first with the backdrop of war his canvas.
I discovered Jayel's heart rendering photos when Rosie O'Donnell featured him on her blog a while back. I was stunned and moved to tears at the compassion his work has for a war torn country. He showed me and others a side of Iraq that only someone who is living there could see. I began following his work closely and as I left yet another comment on his blog I told a friend laughingly: "I think I'm stalking a marine. I hope he doesn't mind."
I couldn't help myself, I was so intrigued with his translation of American culture played out in a middle eastern country. Now he wants me to write something for his blog? There is no way I could refuse, in fact I feel honored. I will put forth my best effort as once again the Internet reveals itself to be the great connector. Stay tuned.
See the artist and marine himself right here:
Yes, I'm still hooked on Twittter. Don't forget to check my Twitter link located at the bottom right corner of this page for the daily goings on of your girl.
Me yesterday morning @ 7 AM.
Listening: Public Enemy, Ice Cube, Eazy E, The Coup and of course RAGE all on my i-Pod. I really liked NWA and the Geto Boyz especially Mr. Scarface. Every now and again I revisit them and wonder where are some of the people I knew back in the early 90's.
Watching: Recently I watched Atonement and The English Patient. Two tragic love stories that really would send me into a deep depression if it were that time of the month. I've learned a secret with tear-jerkers, fast forward through a lot of the film. Try it, it really spares you from getting sucked in.
Reading: Really and truly all I have been reading are blogs and political sites lately. Summer is coming and I'm sure I will dig up a few books by then.
Wearing: Still wearing my knock-off UGGS but today I slipped on my SPANX and relived their magic. I love SPANX.
Wanting: I want a new mattress and a new DVD player. I have no idea what kind of mattress to get, but I know I want a Sony DVD.
NWA - We Want Eazy
I adore Twitter beyond belief. I didn't think I would but it's so addictive because it's so fast and easy and that makes for frequent and different updates all the time. I have one friend on Twitter who updates like five times a day! Before you think, "what a loser, get a life" the man is a world renowned entrepreneur who travels everyday and stays connected through Twitter. That's how effective Twitter is. Even if you don't have a blog consider making a Twitter page and get connected to me, news outlets, your favorite candidate, even blogs. It's so fun I promise.
This video explains the Twitter concept:
Click here to watch friends Rosie O'Donnell and Fran Drescher chat about serious health issues. They are so smart.
I love snooping around celebrity homes but I don't want to get caught in the bushes so instead I've resorted to this great blog about stars real estate purchases. Check out where a celeb lands after a nasty divorce or Conan O' Brien's new digs in Brentwood CA- gorgeous!
I love the book cases on either side of the fireplace.
Art deco kitchen-amazing.
My Dream Homes:
Village Voice columnist Michael Musto has a thrilling new blog you must be sure to check out. Stay hip and current via Musto! He is still doing his V.V. column but he's dishing daily now as well.
PS. Can anyone help me do that RSS feed thingy?
PS. Can anyone help me do that RSS feed thingy?
PS. Can anyone help me do that RSS feed thingy?
PS. Can anyone help me do that RSS feed thingy?
"We must never forget that art is not a form of propaganda; it is a form of truth.
John F. Kennedy, October 26, 1963"
Blogs are creating a new media that empowers the real, unrepresented people and calling the old media on its incredible hypocrisy, sexism and classism at the same time. Bloggers are the real rock stars.
So with that said: What's up with senators giving themselves a $4,400.00 a year raise and they won’t pass the new minimum wage hike? Where is the outrage? $170,000 a year to them while the rest of America works 2 jobs with no health insurance!
George W. Bush just asserted Executive Privilege to reject demands too turn over subpoenaed documents to the Congressional panels investigating AG Gonzales and the firings at the Justice Dept. This criminal president/dictator is worse than Nixon!
The other day I left a comment on an amazing blog and the writer of the blog replied to me. It made me feel so good I thought I would share it with you....
"Nothing could be harder than losing your mother who also happens to be your best friend. I dread the day I'm in those shoes but just for today, I'm grateful for my weight loss and my willingness to feel my feelings. I'm realizing I still have a huge trust issue, but damn this clarity does feel good. Reality is a better place. Your Mom raised a really cool daughter."
Posted by: Liz | June 16, 2007 07:50 PM
"Liz, what a sweet thing to say. Thank you. And congrats on your own journey! Life is perplexing; I must keep it simple. Even then I still find myself hitting the chocolate again tonight.
Ah well, perhaps it's because Father's Day is tomorrow. The fun never stops around here. Truly though, the vast majority of the time I have great peace and serenity. Walking through those feelings is the only way to get anywhere worth going.
Keep at it! You're worth it."
Hanging around my nieces and seeing the toys they play with brings back memories of my childhood games and toys. The other day they burst through the kitchen door telling me they needed to go to McDonald's immediately because they were getting a new shipment of Wizard of Oz dolls in. I reminded them that we don't do McDonald's on Aunt Lizzy's watch. After the three little faces dropped in protest I offered a compromise.
We went to McDonald's and purchased three Happy meals. I requested the dolls they needed for their collection and we threw away the food. When I saw the Wicked Witch of the West doll, I flashed back to my own childhood witch doll and I had to have her. That restaurant was out of witches that day, but I will go back and try again for the girls and.... myself. :)
Hey! does anyone remember the Which Witch board game? Of course they do. I loved this game along with my little green witch doll that glowed in the dark. I think her name was Esmeralda. I never got into collecting dolls as an adult, but I do think the following Hitchcock themed dolls are really cute...
So today this guy contacts me and he is really pissed because I deleted him from my friends list. Now he can't leave comment gems like, "roses they are red and violets they are blue hi i say to you." Normally I wouldn't have even replied to his rude message, but this time I couldn't resist for the sake of this post. Enjoy.
He Says: i went to stop by your site and found out that we are no longer friends. i guess i'll have to put the plans for meeting for a drink at maddies on hold. what happened did you meet another guy? better than me? as if that's possible. no wait let me guess. you're playing hard to get. well here's a hint. you're supposed to do that after we meet. later, rob
Lizzy's Reply: Well you caught me. Yes I deleted you, I confess. Do you really want to know what goes on inside the head of a woman? OK I'll tell you. I see your age right? (He is 41) And then I look at your profile and I see all these twenty year old "hot" chicks and I think- YUK! Why do average looking Joes like you always think that super model is right around the corner waiting to snag you? Well here's a hint- she's not. As for your PLANS to meet at Maddies for a drink...those plans were in your head, because I prefer coffee houses.
Ciao!
The Average Joe himself and I think I'm being generous.
DJ Marilyn Thomas is living in a Red Bank, NJ with her fiance and cat. With no day job right now what else is there to do but blog about her cute new town located just outside New York city? Check out her blog here.
A fellow blogger emailed and wanted to know where I was. I'm here. Baking, working, sleeping, washing my hair, just busy this month. Shopping, earning money in order to shop, throw in a couple of doctor's appointments, holiday parties and it's hectic.
I love having my nieces here, but I don't get much done with them around. Now I know why mothers love to get babysitters just so they can do chores around the house! It's so cute too because my nieces love to help but they are so easily distracted. It's not like I can get them to load the dishwasher or do laundry......YET. I'm just kidding, I'm kidding!! (Come on you know I would at least pay them)
I have my cherished ticket to see Sean Lennon tonight at the TLA and you know I'm dreading the thoughts of the city and parking on a warm Friday night. Why am I like this? I was never like this in my 20's. Was there less traffic then? Sean is driving in from NYC and I wonder if he is dreading the parking. One of his entourage emailed me and asked me about the parking, I didn't hold back, I painted the bleak picture that it is for her. Why can't I be helicoptered to the show? I really want a Sean Lennon concert tee-shirt. I taunt myself, push myself. Maybe Sean will bring a special guest like his mother and I will miss the chance of a lifetime? Nah, it's more likely that I will end up circling around Bainbridge for a half hour wasting a half a tank of gas.
Thankfully, phrases and words come and go in today's vocabulary. On Sunday, I was clicking channels and caught that wacky, zany Quacker lady on QVC. She does all those corny applique get-ups for the soccer Mom/Granny set. I think of her style as generic for the heavily medicated. This is the way Andrea Yate's husband probably made her dress before the voices started. The Quacker lady was hawking this one item she called the 'bling" button sweater and I was thinking to myself OK everyone, time to let go of the bling term now that the Quacker lady is "down."
Changing the world one bling button at a time.
"I cannot tell you how fascinating it is to watch these various condemnatory narratives about me spin around in cyberspace. " ~ Dr. Diana Blaine
I happened upon a link today where I had posted a comment. When I type my name in certain places it sets some people off on a venomous rant about me. I find it rather humorous that I have affected them in this way. This anonymous female person goes off on a whole tirade about how fat and boring and untalented I am. Even going as far as to mention me in relation to crystal meth. Funny, considering I barely drink. Why have some unknown female misfits latched onto me in this wild wacky world of cyberspace? Glad you asked because I have a theory.
Jealousy. That's right I said it, jealousy. The same kind of petty jealousy some girls dealt with in high school. The miscreants find one another in cyberspace and they proceed to do what they do best- tear other people down. We see it all the time on these celebrity blogs. The famous are called names and the dirt is dished daily (say that fast three times). Sooner or later they happen upon a real person like myself and find themselves enraged at my nerve to actually live a life.
How does she have so many interests? How does she know everyone from accountants to drag queens? How does she afford to travel? She is pretty so there has to be something wrong with her body? They really want to know how I have this full life as a single woman over 40. Surely, I'm miserable and just not fessing up.
They read every word I write and examine every picture I post of myself eagerly looking for clues and insight into what certainly must be my fake happiness. In my case they even found a guy I hung out with a few times. He was more than happy to "expose" the real me, especially after I failed to pursue a friendship with him. Of course they would never believe that but oh well such is life. You can't always pick winners.
In my life I don't accept abusive behaviour. I know who I am and I speak my mind and that threatens some people. I have a damned good life and that pisses a lot of people off. I have loads of family love and support. I have smart, talented friends who are socially aware and work to make a difference. I have role models all around me and I learn from them.
If you want to keep following me around the net, studying my every word go right ahead. Your disdain for me is your problem. I will keep living my life happy joyous and free. I'm sorry that threatens you and makes you angry. Maybe someday girlfriends, you can get lives of your own and start your own blogs with real thoughts and interests instead of petty little message boards where you spew hatred and cast aspersions on strangers. Maybe someday you won't be ashamed to post pictures of yourselves and you will stop staring at mine. Let me warn you if & when you finally make it, there will always be some asshole in cyberspace waiting to rip on you. That's OK though you will be strong enough to handle it because by then you will be secure within yourself. Just like me.
Me. Really.
The Wow Report staff made a fetching (grrrrrr... that word) list of annoying phrases or words they find extremely irritating. The all time most annoying phrase used on me is .......*drum roll*
That's so funny (when it's really not that funny and they don't get it)
I knew two people who used this all the time and I knew it was because they didn't get it! How iRrItAtInG. I wanted to send them to the guillotine every time.
Are you are still saying, you go girl ?
"The internet can be depressing, bringing crulety into your life and people you wouldn't normally want contact with a little closer." ~Lisa Nola
So many mean things are said and done on the net. Everyone can comment and it really brings out all the people who don't have a voice else where in their lives. I have become very selective over the years. Maybe it's time for me to apply those standards to my web surfing.
There are very few monsters who warrant the fear we have of them. -- André Gide.
I did not grow up with the Internet. I grew up searching libraries for information I needed. Around ten years ago I realized I needed to get with the program and learn about computers. I procrastinated as long I could but when I decided to learn I jumped in with both feet. I actually trained in the IT field as a computer network admin. I enjoy computers and the net but prefer participating in my "real time" life.
This brings me around to the story of a sixteen year old girl who headed to the middle east to meet a man she met on myspace. Her parents claim they were tricked into getting her a passport and she was stopped at the airport and brought back home safely, thank goodness. I dread the thoughts of what awaited this child.
Naturally all the heat comes down on myspace. The news media loves saying myspace in it's teasers and why is this? Because parents know its something all the kids are doing. It's "all the rage" and the news media has learned since the Bush administration took office, that fear works on Americans. The media taps the insecurities of parents who barely know how to email, and fills them with the notion that their precious chid is practically a pornographer and more likely a sex maniac who is hooking up with every pedophile from New York to California!
I'm not naive. Kids do meet other kids online from other area high schools but most of the kids I know exercise common sense and don't want to be in trouble at home. As I see it there are only two solutions for parents- learn how to use the Internet on the same computer as your kid also exercise common sense when it comes to what your offspring is doing. If your child says they are going to someones house or want a passport to visit elsewhere, it wouldn't hurt to make a few phone calls first.
Myspace isn't the problem with teens. Of course the problems run deeper in some homes. I was a very obedient teenager and even I managed to pull one or two capers over on my parents. If parents would make a point of doing some simple checking and bother to learn about a machine so easy kids operate it, the myspace alarmist would stop.
*For more on America culture of fear and the media's exploitation of that fear, see the film Bowling For Columbine.
I've said it before when you out yourself out there in the form of a blog expect to take some shit. I think it's really weird. Mostly, I can"t figure out why people who claim to hate you want to read every word you write. My best guess is they are secretly intrigued with you and maybe jealous they can't do what you do. It's so passive/aggressive to attack a stranger online. It would be like me posting on Rush Limbaugh's blog (if he even has one) just to call him names most seventh graders know.
I like that there is an aspect of my personality that pushes people's buttons. It's a fine line between love and hate and I like that people at least feel something about what I've written or said. I know who I am and I also know everyone is entitled to their opinion. Here are some examples of great bloggers who have to beat off the haters with a stick. I'm in some damned good company! I'll take that as a compliment. ;-)
I AM: bored with Jessica Simpson, Angelina Jolie, and Katie Holmes and this whole idea of celebrity gossip.
I WANT: to see Madonna in concert.
I WISH: people on the net would stop talking about me like they know me, thats so creepy & stalkerish. They should do there own blogs!
I HATE: people who don't bother to learn about how corrupt this government is and still think the poor are just getting over.
I MISS: An old friend from the past- could it be you?
I HEAR: music playing more since I got an iPod nano.
I WONDER: How my life will turn out?
I REGRET: not being more vocal with what I need from people and putting up with them too long.
I AM NOT: motivated in certain areas.
I DANCE: a lot with my nieces.
I SING: To and from work in my car.
I CRY: most of the time for no reason at all.
I AM NOT ALWAYS: focused on myself the way I should be.
I MAKE WITH MY HANDS: Things people can read or rest there heads on or hang on there walls.
I WRITE: My blog, on myspace and a screenplay here and there.
I CONFUSE: What I'm supposed to be doing especially at work.
I NEED: to do several things, I'm not motivated to do yet.
I SHOULD: stop procrastinating.
I START: some things in my head but don't actually finish them.
I FINISH: watching some movies days later.
I TAG: you?
The last time I saw Madonna was 1985's Like A Virgin Tour.
I just realized I have been writing and editing this blog for three years this month. This morning I got an email from a very talented writer telling me how much he enjoyed UrbanAddiction and that was so nice to read.
Three short years and things have changed so much in my life. I'm really lucky and so grateful for people like Justin, Joi, Jane, Dimitri, Joao and of course Tony who helped me get this project off the ground. There was a time when this space got me through a job I hated. It was the one place where I could be true to myself and remember who I am- a creative being. If you are in a rut shake things up for yourself. Start a creative venture. My life is what I make it each and every day. It's as dull or as interesting as I make it. Blogging showed me that.
Cheers to three years of UrbanAddiction
What do you like to do on my space- take surveys, post comments or peruse the bulletins? Well I browse around and in certain cases check up and see what folks are up too. Good clean innocent fun, right? I have a couple of scenarios I thought I'd share with you.
One gentlemen I read up on from time to time I actually had to block! Yes, he is on my blocked list and I'll tell you the reason why. When I first became active on myspace I had my real age posted and this guy found me. He came on fast and heavy and continued to do so even after I told him I wasn't interested. He seemed intrigued by my age and went on and on about it. He left me no other alternative but to block him. One time I found myself out of curiosity checking his page and low and behold I read about the budding romance he was having with some woman. She seemed to really enjoy his attention unlike me and this myspace romance was in full swing. They commented about meeting and even falling in love! WOW. I was actually happy for them. They both seem to want the same thing and they were finding it on myspace.
It's always fun to check up on famous people- once you establish they are in fact the real deal. Sometimes you catch little glimpses of their reality. I saw one famous NYC party girl comment to her famous "70's" b/f that he wasn't calling enough and she liked feeling more loved. Another popular former couple even seemed on the verge of getting back together via the comment section. Each professed missing the other, but alas if it's happening they aren't playing it out on myspace.
For a while I reading this one particular actress' blog. She was more or less a one hit wonder who is SHAMELESS about tooting her own horn. Mostly I was stunned as I read the bragging and name dropping on a daily basis. Eventually, some questions were raised in my mind. The way this girl went on and on about her popularity, despite never having been in the gossip rags made me wonder. I decided to contact a friend of mine who was in the know about these things and my friend told me my instincts were dead on the money- Miss Myspace was a shameless self promoter who was by and large ignored by the gossip rags despite her efforts to secure a mention. HAHA!
You have to love it- the myspace wheels go round and round. Mr. Blocked and his girl seem to be on hold. I check and nothing- no exchanges between them. Is it over already? I know I'll look in on them and others again and more will be revealed on my space.
Princess Melissa has mentioned finding a subculture of black Vampires on myspace. I'm intrigued with all the mods I have come across and I read there pages daily. Has anyone else noticed all these fashionista's on myspace? These kids are coming out of California and rocking the most amazing vintage style clothing, hair and makeup in what seems to be everyday life.
When I was a little girl I recall my mother giving me history on Mary Quant cosmetics. I thought that single pop art flower was so cool. In the 80's I wore Betsy Johnson's throw back stuff from the 60's- bright prints and high zipped collars with huge earrings. One of my friends mothers collected old fashion magazines and Twiggy was all over the pages. She was stunning with her short hair and huge eyes. My mother said her name was Twiggy because she was so thin. The other day Twiggy herself commented that she was the first working class model and remained true to her background by never changing her accent. Of course today she is as beautiful as ever and an icon.
I've made a point of chatting with some of the mods online and they are super sweet, talented and bright. Several of the girls are into fashion design and the guys are all modern day Alfies in there double breasted jackets, swinging with the most gorgeous females ever to wear mini skirts, hair bands and eyeliner. Men! There is something to be said for a sharp dressed gentlemen- just ask Michael Caine who will always be the epitome of sixties cool for me.
The mods enjoy the music of the era and they all feature it on there myspace pages. They are into scooters and gather in Chinatown at a club called Transistor. The photo sessions they post are remarkable. Gorgeous pics with stunning guys and girls submerged in the beat generation. This movement isn't about not bathing, or dropping out of school to piss off your parents. It's creative, reflective and fun! It seems to attract larger than life, creative people and nothing can be bad about that.
The new Mods Photo by Maurice de la Falaise
It's March and that's great. I'm actually looking forward to Spring and the warm weather. Work was cancelled today and that's just as well because my throat is sore and my voice is horse so I want to chill out today and drink tea.
Some people have mentioned about the comments being shut off here on UA. Yea, I was tired of the spam and the haters you get on the net. I can't imagine why people get so invested in a total strangers life but apparently they do. After a few years of blogging I really don't care about comments anymore. In the beginning I think every blogger lives for comments. I was telling The Divine One recently that just because you have... say five steady posters doesn't mean that's an accurate gage of your readership. I'm shocked when I'm out and meet people and they say they have read this blog. Sometimes I write and I forget anyone is looking which is probably best anyway.
A great blog coming out of Philly now is called Mental Hopscotch by the adorable and talented Freddy. Just blogging about his life has opened doors and Freddy has a column now in the Philly Gay News. He is so smart and very sweet so check him out! He is still enabling his comment section. :)
"A drag queen, an artist, an affected publicity whore, Diva: names I have been called. No matter what I was, I was always myself. Being yourself is never an easy proposition. A habitué of MAC Cosmetics and last call bar fly of the cologne bar and a somewhat OK queer brother. If life is a zoo, I am the Pink Bear. About as popular as a Pink Bear in a working class South Philly neighborhood; I press on. Whatever life may throw; it may not be pretty but at least I can be." ~ The Divine Ms. Jimmi
The Divine one herself has finally launched her long awaited website entitled of course, The Divine Ms. Jimmi. Now fans can have the Divine one all in one place; blog pictures and links. Her blog is so tender and humorous. The Divine Ms. Jimmi is a cast member of Philly's own theatrical troupe, The Dumpsta Players. Remember I was raving about them last month? Clearly a devoted friend and house wife Ms. Jimmi brings a sparkle to PinkyBear, her blog with every new post.
The best bloggers are the ones that have a life and a point of view. Ms. Jimmi, a local entertainer never holds back on either. She jumps into life with heels on and all. Jimmi embraces life with a the show must go on attitude. When I click on her link I can feel the love as well as pretty and pink!
The Divine One and Our Friend Robby
Tonight I burned my first CD on my new comp and it was....*drum roll*..... Madonna's Confessions On A Dance Floor. I love this track Forbidden Love. If anyone wants to lend me some great CD's- let me know, I'll be sure to return them unharmed. :D
Eyelids - Stye
A stye, or hordeolum, is a bacterial infection of a gland along the edge of the eyelid (usually near an eyelash follicle). The result is a small, itchy red bump at the lash line. Sties may eventually drain and heal on their own, usually in about one week. What Causes Styes? Styes are caused by staphylococcal bacteria. This bacterium is often found in the nose, and it's easily transferred to the eye by rubbing first your nose, then your eye.
The first step in easing your discomfort and encouraging the stye to drain is to apply a warm compress to the area, usually three to four times a day. This can help bring the pimple-like bump to a head. If the stye does not drain on its own, we can prescribe an antibiotic ointment. In some cases, we may use an alternate medication or oral antibiotics instead. Rarely, an in-office procedure is needed to physically drain and remove the stye.
You should never attempt to puncture or squeeze a stye, because this can spread infection and lead to further complications. Instead, if you do not find relief from warm compresses, see a Doctor. A stye itself is not usually a serious condition but, if left untreated, excessive irritation or complication could occur.
Dan Renzi shares about doing a show with James St James. Of course that leads into him reliving his old NYC nightclub days. I'm thrilled to see I wasn’t the only one having a great time stone cold sober. Well I was and some people have actually doubted me!
Dan and James Looking Fab
Melissa Howard blogs about the whole six degrees of separation thing with her and other noted blogers. Melissa is a HUGE namedropper and so of course I read her site. I'm thrilled to learn I'm not the only person lost in these celebrity blogs. I'm way to up on Nicole Ritchie's weight. Like Melissa, I'm addicted to wasting my time which would explain why this blog has turned into a fan site for James St James and Michael Musto. In any case, I have decided to start writing a movie script. Let's see how well I do fighting the distractions.
This morning I'm reading Dan Renzi's site and he has seen Murderball. Anne told me I should see this movie and frankly, I thought I would have little interest in it. Read Dan's write up of the film, it's excellent. I love it when Dan advices our wheelchair bound friends to head for the dance floor because most able bodied people can't dance anyway. You have to admit, he has a point. OMG! I would so want a pimped out wheelchair!
Apparently former club kid now convict Michael Alig still garnishes controversy. He sends one little birthday card to former celebutant turned author James St. James and the world goes nuts! Of course you will find yours truly in the thick of things taking some heat. You know I love it.
I heard two really great things last night. Someone said you must seek knowledge and love learning your whole life. Information is out there but you have to make yourself accessible.
I was thinking the other day, what a distracted student I was. School was really a social event to me. My parents never made a big deal about grades. Unless they were awful they never seemed to care. We weren't presented with college as a viable option. In fact, I'm the only one who wanted and did go to college from my family.
It's only been, as I've gotten older that I realize how much I love learning. It is truly my passion. I could never be in a relationship with a mental loafer I know this. Astuteness and surrounding myself with people who can impart wisdom is utmost in my mind, seriously.
I'm always, always pushing myself to the next level. I constantly come across new people whom I think I will learn from because they intrigue me. Now with that said I don't really know what the next level is or exactly how I'm supposed to get there. I have actually contacted some very astute people and presented them with this question, as if they could answer it for me.
I find myself back at square one with something. Why am I back as square one? Because I didn't listen to myself the last time this came up for me. When the going got rough, I backed down and went back to what I knew. Surprise! There is that vacant feeling again.
No, education never ends. Today I will get quiet and listen for new insights.
Ok I really didn't. After all he was very old, right? It's not like we weren't expecting it even though the Catholic church was putting the, "he's doing just dandy" spin on his health reports. The whole point of this post is to say I want this tee shirt!
*Disclaimer: This post was entered by a former Catholic school girl. Do not try this at home as it may result in extreme feelings of guilt.*
We have to make room for celebs who want to blog? Why does that idea annoy me? It's like they invade this last unchartered territory and of course get all kinds of publicity like it's something new that was just invented.
I really dislike the idea of fame. John Lennon and David Bowie made an awesome song about it in the 70's, they knew fame was no good. It makes people weird, it changes them. I love the idea of anything that isn't mainstream. "Celebrity" participation will make blogging corny.
Once, I attained a certain fame... on a message board. It was more like a notorious reputation. Some people put forth that they loved my writing and others hated me and everything I stood for with a passion. People wrote about me everyday. They picked apart everything about me in chat rooms and the board and when there was nothing to pick, they made up lies or just took cheap shots. Scambling to get my picture, they posted it. It was a weird sensation, strangely addictive. I would tune into this place to read what people were saying about me. After a while I no longer cared.
I always thought if ever I were famous in real life, I would stay between Philly and NYC. This area is home for me and I'm grounded here. I could stay real here.
What do we have to tolerate of pop culture next, Justin Timberlake or Ashton Kutcher blogging?
Shhh Liz, don't give 'em any ideas.
Some of you know why. Anyway, wish me luck and keep me in your thoughts and prayers for tomorrow at 10am. I feel ready to go!!
UPDATE, March 8th 6:30pm:
I passed during a snow storm! YAY!
Can you feel it
Nothin' can save ya
For this is the season of catchin' the vapors
And since I got time, what I'm gonna do
Is tell ya how to spread it throughout my crew -Biz Markie
I've been sick for weeks now. First the head cold then the croaking then the chest congestion. It's been a total drag sitting here hacking which resulted in watching repeats of the Ashlee Simpson Show, cancelling three separate hair appointments and backing out of dinner with friends! Finally after popping more pills than Kelly Osbourne, I seem to have found a cure. I got a vaporizer. I rubbed Vicks on my chest and let the steam fill the room. So far it seems to be helping.
Last night Evan downloaded some music for me.
* Jay-z vs. Linkin Park (It rocks -n- raps!)
* Keane (Evan and I have tix to see them in Feb)
* Eminem/ Encore
* Elliot Smith/ XO
This morning first thing, my friend Nicole let her surgeon download her breast cancer. He skillfully cut it out of her and she is on the mend. I went to visit her this afternoon and thankfully the percocet let her rest comfortably.
Finally I have submitted my interview with Philly skater girl and artist, Lauren Callahan to Bitch magazine for there Masculinity (spring 2005) issue. In the interview Lauren and I discuss the pressures of being a female in a male dominated sport and how she makes the sport her own while inspiring younger skater girls to participate.
Download complete
Daniel showed me this tee shirt and I think he should get it for me! Check it out right here.
My fashion stylist is a Jedi Master
People ask me this question all the time. I try the best I can to explain what I think is a weblog. Usually, I just come off sounding flaky. I started a weblog because I was addicted to other people's online journals. I read their thoughts and followed the daily workings of people who wanted to disclose. If they suggested a book I thought sounded interesting, I would pick it up. Clearly, I was being influenced by this burgeoning form of self-publishing.
I had a vision for my weblog and I viewed it as a creative process which made it stimulating for me. The first thing I realized is the most interesting blogs were written by people who were actually living their life. I was stuck at a job I really disliked, OK I hated it, and every one knows that. Even though I was traveling, nourishing old relationships and building new ones, I wanted more for myself creatively. I wanted to do something and feel proud of the end result. I wanted to have some control over my productivity rather than being stifled by some authority figure.
Since starting Urban Addiction.com, doors and windows have flown open for me. I have gotten job interviews and made new friends, but I also found a rewarding endeavor. I stumbled on my ability to just try something new. The outcome doesn't matter to me; it’s the fact that I made the attempt that fortifies me. I take risks and that started here, with UA. It's ironic when I think back to before I was writing online and just reading. I'm growing into what I most admired in others.
I have been following the trials and tribulations of a few people via their blogs. One person I check in with is Evan, Swarthmore student, musican, activist and guitar instructor. Sometimes I feel like a stalker but hey at least I'm harmless...right hehe
Today, I'm checking out this topic and reading about the free exchange of ideas on the net. I take lots of pictures of artists and I love it when they use my pics. I want to check into this whole copywriting thing. Is this about making money from everything on the net? Thats so annoying. Will my nieces has a different internet then I have? The other day, while channel surfing, I heard Oprah say she doesn't "let" people use her name. Later on QVC, they were referring to her and very obviously not using her name. Is this the issue at hand*? Where do we draw a line?
*Later Clarification: Apparently this is about keeping academic material free. Using Linux allows free access, unlike Microsoft.
"The Swarthmore Coalition for the Digital Commons is a student organization at Swarthmore College inspired by the Electronic Frontier Foundation, Lawrence Lessig, Creative Commons and the Free Software Foundation. It is dedicated to promoting a bottom-up, participatory structure to society and culture, ensuring the free flow of information, and resisting the recent radical expansion of intellectual property law (as exemplified by the Digital Millenium Copyright Act)."
Do you need to know whats coming up in Philly or your town, or anywhere in the world for that matter? I need to know, so I'm checking out this site for further notice and reviews.
I'm a member of Friendster, Orkut and Ryze . They are online communities and nothing more then an interesting experiment for me. However, look what one of the Stanford students did for his web design course last quarter -- a parody of Friendster that shows how people and corporations are connected politically. The students already put up a lot about Sherman Austin, but anyone can add more. Fun stuff huh!!
Political prisoner, Sherman Austin's page
Yesterday, I met with Theresa Johnson, Features Editor at the Philadelphia Daily News. We walked to Rose Tattoo Cafe, and over a delicious lunch, we talked blogging and blog culture. Sharing theories and ideas, Theresa told me about the Girlfriends Locker Room; a really smart informative and fun fitness blog that she and some of the other editors contribute too. This type of site in particular, speaks to the benefit of blogging and the sense of community that we all desire. These ladies share a common interest in working out and fitness, but they also have families, careers and busy lives. Finding themselves frequently in front of a computer, this a fun way to chat and share with your fellow enthusiasts, new information on workout routines, getting in shape or just chit chat about what they’re watching on television in the evenings. I shared with Theresa that I had recently started walking with a friend a couple of times a week. She suggested I might want to check out the “Girlfriends” for additional info on diet and exercise. The aptly named Girlfriends Locker Room is a friendly, welcoming place, just like walking with a girlfriend, it makes working out seem a lot easier, a lot more fun and my goals more attainable!
A clear day brings new possiblities. The Daily News/Inquirer Building.
I know some people don't believe blogs are viable. I guess they think of the net as a place to misbehave or a hangout because a real life is nonexistent. I don't believe kids have these prejudges because they are being taught, learning and well as playing, on these machines. (Why, in my day... nah I'm not going to go there). :laughs: However, a couple of months ago, I participated, in a survey for MIT Media Lab. Fernanda Viégas conducted this survey and yesterday the results were emailed to me per my request. According to the outcome most bloggers live in California and England. 78.6% of us are Caucasian, 63% are male. I suppose this survey is a good place to learn the logistics of blogger; there aren't many in Pennsylvania for example. It was interesting for me to read about the ways people handle the same blogging issues I deal with. Do I use a friends name, hell, do I use my own name? What if a potential employer were to google my name? Do I want them knowing my politics, my loves, my loses? This survey sparks discussion on blogs far and near. Most of all bloggers learn from one another, build a community and career network. Many fellow bloggers attended a media conference this year called South by Southwestern (SXSW). If I attend next year the priority for me is connecting, in person, with many fellow bloggers, and the thoughts of that are an exhilarating prospect for me. Wouldn’t it be wonderful to work at a company that would sponsor me at such a conference?
Click on this link and check it out when you get time. I laugh at a lot of Bill Maher's stuff and agree with most of it.
In Addition....
Friends! Get in on this discussion. Take in some different news/info sources and get a fresh perspective. Know why you vote for, or against, the way your parents influenced you to vote.
I found this bloggers survey on Joi Ito's blog and I decided to participate in it and pass it along here. This blogging thing really seems to have taken off, doesn't it?
Tonight’s season premier of Sex and the City had Carrie googling for information on her latest boyfriend. I suppose the reason I always loved the show is because I could relate too much of it. Googling a new guy is no exception. I have googled men. For those of you who aren’t aware of this clandestine tactic, it’s when you put a person’s name into google and see what turns up. Mostly, I have googled old boyfriends, just to be nosey. I have to really like a chap to google him. I don’t just google anyone; I’m not that kind of girl. The results regarding my ex’s have always turned up a big nothing, much like the relationships, I’m sorry to say. I have a friend who had a crush on a guy who was doing some work around her house. When she googled him it eventually led his police record. Her crush and his work ended just about the same time. Another girlfriend told me she googled a guy recently to get his number, that lead to dinner. I’m wondering if men google woman? I bet most men haven’t ever thought of it. Ahh the phenomenon of the net never ceases to astound and delight me.
Todays fun activity was inspired by something the blogfather did, and did it quite well. My little brainstorm was a bit less techie and more off the cuff.
Last weekend I went to the Sanrio/Hello Kitty store, with my nieces and I purchased (ok, it's confession time) a Hello Kitty charm for my mobile phone. While busy at work today, *cough,cough* I found a little pic of Hello Kitty, cut her out and laminated her onto my phone! Skin something, it's a hoot.
Gauss-Jordan Method
As some of you know I bombed the first test, bad! (Please don't ask me to say the test score) I jammed with my tutor and made some head way. I let the Prof know that I wasn't ready to give up just yet. Tonight after class, I had to stick around for some clarification on a particular method. Once Mr. H explained it, it clicked. He asked me how long it had been since I had the basics and I told him the truth, 20 yrs. (do the math). He asked if I felt overwhelmed and I told him as long as I see the tutor I'm OK. He told me point blank, that he didn't care who I was, if I failed the tests, I would fail the class. I said fair enough, I understand that, I actually like this class and I want to hang in and fight the good fight. I told Mr. H that this was my only class this semester and I was able to devote time to it. I have no idea why I'm relaxed about this situation. I recall a time, when a Prof was able to intimidate me out of Spanish class. I was always convinced math was beyond me and it was my boyfriends duty to tutor me (which he faithfully did). Today, I'm different person. I'll decide when I'm done with finite math, and for now I'm digging it, so I'm not done. I really want to kick ass in this class. I have to pass every test from here on out, that's OK, I'm in it to win it.
By the by, any words of encouragement will be greatly appreciated. :D
I love my desk area. Its very visual and peaceful and compact. I dont have everything spread all over, its all right there nice and handy. Look around and see if you can spot your pic. I have lots of real life and online friends pics where I can see them. I like to see the space where people play online games or write for there blog or photoshop a master piece. Send me a pic of your desk/work area, I would love to see it. Yea, thats weird I know, but its revealing.
Its Sunday. My usual routine is too get coffee, put MTV on, for background noise, and catch up on there annoying programing (the shows I love to hate). Dimi is online and he and I are working on the blog until he takes a break to watch soccor or play a game. Dimi & I have been hanging out online, on the weekends, for years now. haha! I love it!
I was reading Joi Ito's blogand he mentions that he has a new long distance service. I'm always on the look out for this kind of thing, due to the over seas calls I make to friends. (Thank goodness Anne isn't living in Paris anymore, they were some phone bills!) Cheap phone rates have become a mission in my life. I cut caller ID from my home phone because that was becoming a huge waste of time, checking all the blocked calls. Sure the phone company will force* people to show there number, for a nominal fee of course. Now I work towards getting as many free cell phone minutes as possible.
I have a verizon cellphone and right now I have Californis Dreamin as my ring tone. I tried to look into downloading other tones, but I cant find any for Verizon. Apparently I can only use the ModTones or Get It Now. I really want Janes Addiction on there, but it isnt offered.
I'm still working on this blog in between other things.
I have accounting finals coming up this week and next week. After that Anne and I are headed to South Beach for a little R&R. Anne has been busy running her Dad to medical appointments. Yesterday I was back in NYC with my Mom and Jeanna to see Hairspray on Broadway. It was so great. Two hours for pure joy. Check it out if you get a chance!
http://www.hairsprayonbroadway.com
Starting this blog has not been easy. I dont know much about the techie stuff and Anne knows even less. I have been reaching out and asking for help from the people whose blogs I respect the most. One person in particular has been to founder of www.GameGirlAdvance.com , Jane. This blog Goddess has been incredibably generous with tech help and suggestions. Thanks Jane, your the best.
